What Is a Daffodil?

A daffodil is a bulbous perennial plant in the genus Narcissus (family Amaryllidaceae), native to Europe and North Africa, celebrated for its early spring trumpet-shaped flowers that signal renewal. These cheerful blooms, typically yellow or white, emerge on leafless stems amid strap-like leaves, thriving in temperate gardens and symbolizing rebirth, hope, and good fortune.​

Botanical overview

Daffodils grow from underground bulbs, producing 5–6 linear, 30 cm long leaves in basal clusters and hollow stems 5–80 cm tall bearing one to multiple flowers. Each flower features six spreading tepals surrounding a central corona (trumpet or cup) that varies from long and flared to short and disc-like.​

• Flower forms: Trumpet (one large corona), large-cupped, double, triandrus (pendant clusters), cyclamineus (reflexed tepals), or jonquilla (fragrant, multi-flowered).​
• Reproduction: Seeds in dehiscent capsules; bulbs offset for propagation, with toxicity from lycorine deterring herbivores.​

Taxonomy and divisions

Narcissus includes over 50 species divided into 13 sections by the Royal Horticultural Society, with thousands of hybrids bred for colour, form, and season. Key groups: Trumpet daffodils (Pseudonarcissus), poeticus (white with red-rimmed eye), and tazettas (clusters, often fragrant).​

Cultivation and care

Daffodils prefer full sun to partial shade, well-drained soil (pH acidic to neutral), and autumn planting 10–15 cm deep in groups for natural effect. Hardy in zones 3–8, they naturalize readily, needing “let foliage die back” for bulb recharge; deer/rabbit resistant.​

• Maintenance: Divide crowded clumps every 5–7 years; force paperwhites indoors; tolerate clay/sand but avoid wet spots.​
• Pests: Few issues; basal rot rare with drainage.​

Uses and floristry

Ideal for borders, rock gardens, naturalizing under trees, and cutting (vase life 1–3 weeks); fragrant types scent rooms. All parts toxic to pets/humans if ingested.​

Symbolism and appeal

Linked to new beginnings (Welsh emblem, March birth flower), daffodils uplift spring displays and gifts, never given singly to avoid bad luck.